On June 7, the European Parliament’s Environment and Internal Market Committees adopted proposals for new EU rules aimed at ensuring circularity across the entire vehicle lifecycle — from design to end-of-life treatment.

Under the proposed regulation, new vehicles would need to be designed for easy removal and reuse of parts, with the rules applying to cars and vans one year after entry into force, and to other vehicle types within five years. Certain vehicles, including those for the military, emergency services, and cultural use, would be exempt.

MEPs propose that each new vehicle should include at least 20% recycled plastic within six years, rising to 25% within ten years, depending on supply. The European Commission is also expected to introduce future targets for recycled steel and aluminium.

Manufacturers would bear extended responsibility for vehicle collection and treatment at end-of-life, with strict requirements for hazardous component removal. Member states would be required to conduct regular inspections of relevant facilities and implement plans to combat illegal practices.

The proposal also tightens rules on used vehicle exports, clarifying when a vehicle is considered end-of-life and requiring proper documentation for customs checks.

The regulation, aligned with the European Green Deal, is expected to be voted on in the September 2025 plenary. Each year, around 6.5 million vehicles in the EU reach end-of-life stage.

To learn more, proceed to the press release by European Parliament.